Lesley's First CF Check-Up in College

They tested my lung function by having me breathe through a
mouthpiece that connected to a tube, which then connected to a computer. The
computer would calculate how much air I could push out within the first second.
My score was a low 60%.

If the doctor were to put me on IV treatments for a clean
out, I would have to ditch a day of classes in order for them to insert a PICC
line, which is an inserted intravenous catheter that allows me to receive
antibiotics without getting my arm poked each dose. Within the two weeks, I
would have to make trips back to Tampa General to get my levels tested via
blood draw. Each day, I would take about 3 respiratory therapies (a total of 90
minutes) and about 4-5 IV treatments. The IV delivery system is now portable,
so I could easy grab food or go to class; however, I would have to do a fairly
good job hiding the embarrassing tube that disappears into my arm. I would also
have to wake up at various times in the night or stop whatever I am doing to
take a dose in order to make the intervals. I was already struggling to balance
everything in my life, especially with finals approaching.

Now might be a good time to tell you that I actually got the
doctor's OK; they concluded that since my lungs sounded clear, and that the low
score was a result of my asthma component.

Looking at the bigger picture, Cystic Fibrosis actually has
a lot of positive effects on my college experience! I am able to keep up with
my social life so well because I can say "yes" to everyfood offer that comes
my way knowing that I am staying healthy by maintaining my weight. I usually
end up eating two dinners a night! I am also more motivated to participate inphysical activity, because I know my lungs will feel better afterwards. Plus, if
I ever need an excuse to decline certain invitations, I can always say that I
have to go get my breathing treatment! (Just kidding... sort of!)

As long as I get in the constant routine of having enough
pancreatic enzymes on me, my CF really does not affect my daily life—only a
clean out would throw me off-track. I am destined to get another clean out in my lifetime; it is a norm for CFers. I
have no idea how far down the road that will be, but the day will come. But
today, no IV treatments for me!

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